I. Introduction
Having to deal with unwanted calls on your iPhone can be frustrating and invasive. Fortunately, the iPhone provides different options for blocking numbers – be it individual phone numbers or unknown calls. In this article, you’ll learn how to block numbers on iPhone by following some simple steps. We’ll explore the various ways to block numbers and how to unblock them as well. This guide is intended for anyone looking to reduce the number of unwanted calls, texts, and spams on their iPhone.
II. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Block a Number on iPhone
One of the easiest ways to block a number is through the “Block This Caller” feature in the Phone app. Here are the steps:
1. Open the Phone app on your iPhone and go to “Recents.”
2. Find the number you want to block and click on the “i” icon next to it.
3. Scroll down and click on “Block this Caller.”
4. Finally, confirm by clicking on “Block Contact.”
If you want to block a number via the Messages app, here’s what you need to do:
1. Open the Messages app on your iPhone and find the conversation with the number you want to block.
2. Click on the name or number at the top of the conversation.
3. Next, click on the “i” icon and scroll down to click on “Block this Caller.”
4. Lastly, click on “Block Contact” to confirm.
Using screenshots or visual aids can make it easier to visualize the process visually.
III. Blocking a Number via Settings
An alternative way to block numbers is via the “Do Not Disturb” feature. Using this feature, you can silence calls from anyone who’s not in your Contacts list. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Go to settings and click on “Do Not Disturb.”
2. Click on “Allow Calls From” and select “All Contacts.”
3. Lastly, turn on “Do Not Disturb” mode.
In addition to blocking numbers via Do Not Disturb, you can also block numbers via the Settings app. Here’s how:
1. Go to settings and click on “Phone.”
2. Click on “Blocked Contacts.”
3. Under the “Blocked Contacts” menu, click on “Add New” and select the number you want to block.
There are advantages to blocking numbers via the Settings app. For instance, blocked numbers can be found easily in the Blocked Contacts menu. Also, blocked contacts won’t be able to leave voicemail, unlike with blocking numbers via the Phone or Messages app.
IV. Using Call Blocking Apps
Another way to block numbers is by using third-party call blocking apps. Here are some of the top call blocking apps available on the iPhone:
1. Truecaller – Offers spam blocking features in addition to call blocking.
2. Hiya – A reliable app that provides blocking for spam, nuisance, and fraud calls.
3. RoboKiller – The app uses AI to block spam calls and texts, plus automated responses.
To download and install these apps, search for them in the App Store and then proceed with their installation process. Once installed, you can follow the app’s instructions to block numbers or spams from unwanted calls or messages.
Using call blocking apps is an easy and efficient way of filtering out unwanted numbers. However, it’s important to note that some of these apps require a subscription or offer only a limited trial before purchase. Additionally, some apps may also consume more battery life on your iPhone due to their continuous activity in the background.
V. Blocking Unknown Numbers
If you receive constant spam calls from unknown or unidentified numbers, there are ways to block them on your iPhone. One of the easiest ways to block unknown or spam numbers is by using the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature.
Here’s how:
1. Go to settings and click on “Phone.”
2. Scroll down and turn on the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature.
It’s important to note that this feature blocks all calls from numbers not in your contacts or recents list. Calls from unknown numbers will be sent directly to voicemail.
Some third-party apps can also help block unknown or spam numbers. For instance, apps like Verizon Call Filter or AT&T Call Protect provide spam filtering for unknown numbers.
VI. How to Unblock a Number
If you mistakenly blocked a number or would like to receive calls from a contact, you can unblock them. Here’s how:
1. Go to settings and click on “Phone.”
2. Click on “Blocked Contacts.”
3. Find the number you want to unblock and click on “Edit.”
4. Click on “Unblock this Caller.”
It’s also possible to unblock a number or contact via the Phone or Messages app. Once you open the app, search for the number, click on the “i” icon, and then click on “Unblock this Caller.”
The advantage of unblocking a number or contact is getting a chance to receive important calls or messages you may have missed while the number was blocked.
VII. The Benefits of Call Blocking
The benefits of call blocking go beyond answering only the calls you want. Here’s why:
1. Reduction in unwanted calls and messages: Call blocking helps reduce unwanted or unsolicited calls that can waste your time and lead to frustration.
2. Improved privacy and peace of mind: Blocking numbers ensures nobody will have access to your phone number, giving you a sense of privacy and peace of mind.
3. Statistics on the number of spam calls?: According to recent statistics on spam calls in the US, it’s been estimated that Americans receive over 46 billion spam calls per year, which equates to about 131 million unwanted calls daily. Call blocking helps reduce this amount significantly.
VIII. Conclusion
Blocking numbers on your iPhone is a task that can be easily accomplished using various methods. Whether you choose to use the “Block This Caller” feature, the “Do Not Disturb” feature, call blocking apps, or any of the other ways we’ve outlined here, you can effectively control the calls and messages you receive.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to block numbers confidently, safe in the knowledge that you can also unblock them if you change your mind. Take control of your iPhone today and reduce the number of unwanted calls and texts in your life.
